Seeking happiness, finding discontent: navigating the complex pursuit of well-being

This study investigates the paradoxical effects of pursuing happiness on subjective well-being and psychological health. Drawing on existing literature, it hypothesizes that valuing happiness too highly and the tendency to monitor emotions excessively and set unrealistic standards can detrimentally affect well-being. The study examines the relationships between these factors and their impact on subjective well-being through an online survey (n = 323) employing reliable and valid measures. The findings reveal that while setting realistic standards for happiness can have a positive influence, valuing happiness too highly, monitoring emotions, and setting unrealistic standards are associated with lower levels of well-being. Furthermore, the study demonstrates that the negative influence of valuing happiness on well-being is moderated by the tendency to monitor emotions and set high standards. These results suggest that pursuing happiness can lead to decreased well-being when approached with perfectionistic tendencies and unrealistic expectations. The paper discusses the implications of these findings for understanding the pursuit of happiness, providing practical insights for individuals and professionals interested in well-being. Limitations of the study and directions for future research are also addressed.